Grilled Steak with Shrimp, Garlic Sauce, and Yellow Rice: A Flavor-Packed Surf and Turf Feast
Few dishes deliver the satisfaction of a perfectly grilled steak—except, perhaps, one that’s served with golden shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, fluffy yellow rice, and a side of crispy roasted broccoli. This recipe for Grilled Steak with Shrimp, Garlic Sauce, and Yellow Rice is a flavor-forward, restaurant-quality meal that you can recreate at home with ease.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, planning a romantic dinner, or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet-style meal, this surf and turf recipe ticks every box. It’s elegant enough for special occasions but straightforward enough for a hearty weeknight dinner. Packed with bold seasoning and comforting sides, this recipe offers balance, variety, and unbeatable flavor.
Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, tips, and everything else you need to master this recipe at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is ideal for:
- Steak lovers who want to elevate their go-to meal.
- Seafood fans who appreciate succulent, spiced shrimp.
- Entertainers looking for a visually impressive and crowd-pleasing entrée.
- Home cooks ready to build their confidence with a complete, multi-component dinner.
This recipe brings together the savory umami of marinated steak, the smoky sweetness of paprika-spiced shrimp, the earthy richness of garlic butter, and the warm spices of turmeric and cumin-infused yellow rice. Pair that with roasted broccoli for a nutritional punch and color contrast.
Ingredients at a Glance
For the Steak:
- 2 steaks (Ribeye, Sirloin, or New York Strip)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
For the Shrimp:
- 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Yellow Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
For the Garlic Sauce:
- ¼ cup butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For the Roasted Broccoli:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Grill or grill pan
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Medium saucepan (for rice)
- Small saucepan (for garlic sauce)
- Oven and baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs and spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil (optional, for resting steak)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate the Steak
Combine olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the marinade over your choice of steaks, ensuring even coverage. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature (or longer in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Pro Tip: Marinating for 1–2 hours allows the acidic balsamic vinegar to tenderize the meat and intensify the flavor.
2. Prepare the Yellow Rice
In a saucepan, combine chicken broth, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Bring to a boil. Add the rice, cover, reduce the heat, and let simmer for 15–18 minutes. When all liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
Shortcut: Use precooked microwaveable rice and stir in spices and a splash of broth for quick prep.
3. Grill the Steak
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place steaks on the hot surface and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Doneness Guide:
- Rare: 120°F
- Medium-Rare: 130°F
- Medium: 140°F
- Medium-Well: 150°F
- Well Done: 160°F+
4. Cook the Shrimp
In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Toss shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until they’re pink, curled, and lightly seared.
Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp—they go from juicy to rubbery quickly.
5. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Stir in parsley, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and keep warm.
6. Roast the Broccoli
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 15–20 minutes, until the edges are crispy and browned.
Alternative: Air-fry the broccoli at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Plate the sliced steak alongside yellow rice and a few shrimp. Drizzle garlic sauce generously over the steak and shrimp. Add a side of roasted broccoli for color, crunch, and balance. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Food & Drink Pairings
- Wine: A full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with grilled steak. Prefer white? Try a buttery Chardonnay for the shrimp.
- Beer: Amber ale or IPA complements the dish’s smoky, garlicky flavors.
- Side Ideas: Garlic bread, a simple cucumber salad, or even mashed potatoes if you’re skipping rice.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating:
- Steak: Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or slice thin and serve cold in salads.
- Shrimp: Warm in a skillet for 1–2 minutes—avoid microwaving, as it can toughen them.
- Rice and Broccoli: Microwave or reheat in a covered skillet with a splash of broth or water.
Freezing Tips: Shrimp and garlic sauce do not freeze well. However, you can freeze steak and rice for up to 2 months.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
- Swap the Protein: Try chicken thighs or salmon instead of steak and shrimp.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce or use cayenne in the shrimp seasoning.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve with cauliflower rice or grilled zucchini noodles instead of yellow rice.
- Vegan Option: Replace steak and shrimp with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms, and swap the garlic butter with vegan margarine or olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
Q: What cut of steak is best for grilling?
A: Ribeye delivers maximum flavor and marbling, while New York Strip offers a leaner but still juicy bite. Sirloin is the most budget-friendly.
Q: Can I make the garlic sauce in advance?
A: Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done?
A: Shrimp are done when they turn pink, opaque, and form a tight “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp form an “O” and feel rubbery.
Q: Can I cook everything at once?
A: With a bit of planning, yes! Marinate the steak and prep the rice first. While the rice simmers, roast the broccoli. Grill the steak while broccoli finishes, then cook shrimp and make the sauce last so everything is hot and fresh.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Steak with Shrimp, Garlic Sauce, and Yellow Rice isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. Each component complements the other to create a well-balanced, mouthwatering meal that’s fit for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing an intimate dinner for two, this recipe is sure to impress.
